How to Fly $60,000 Emirates First-Class for $300

Blogger Sam Huang got the deal of a lifetime for an Emirates first class flight, and maybe you can too.

Emirates's first-class "cabin" is not only one of the world's most luxurious ways to fly—it's fancier than some hotels. Blogger Sam Huang was dying to try out the experience, but the $60,000 price tag for a round-the-world fare scared him off, understandably. However, he was able to get a ticket for just $300 and a hoard of Alaska Airlines frequent-flier miles (the two airlines recently began a code-share program, creating the perfect opportunity for Huang to take advantage of the new partnership). Once Huang had his tickets in hand, he documented the entire experience—from Singapore to the U.S. and back, with seven total stops—for his website, TopMiles, where he teaches other people how to find and use air-travel hacks.

While Huang's feat is impressive, it's not impossible to replicate yourself, provided you're willing to do your research, book well ahead of time, and possibly use all of your miles. Condé Nast Traveler reporter Cynthia Drescher was able to experience the first class cabin (her fare, between London and Abu Dhabi, would have cost "only" $4,000 had she paid retail price) on another Middle Eastern airline, Etihad, by using miles and paying a small fee, a la Huang: "I bought my tickets five months ahead of my travel date, redeemed 40,000 American Airlines AAdvantage miles, and paid $155 in fees for the seat," she explains. And once you do book Emirates's cabin experience, the perks are worth the money: Think a separate, private boarding door with no line, unlimited food and drink, top-shelf liquors and Champagne, use of first-class lounges in layover airports, a full lie-flat bed, and an on-board shower with heated floor so you can arrive at your destination rested and relaxed. There's only one problem, though: You may never be able to travel normally ever again.